GOVERNOR LINGLE APPOINTS LAWRENCE REIFURTH AS DIRECTOR OF DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE AND CONSUMER AFFAIRS

For Immediate Release: March 30, 2007

HONOLULU — Governor Linda Lingle today announced the appointment of Lawrence M. Reifurth to serve as director of the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs (DCCA).  Reifurth, who has been the department’s deputy director since January 2003, will replace Mark Recktenwald who the Governor appointed as chief judge of the Intermediate Court of Appeals.  His appointment is subject to Senate confirmation.

“Larry’s experience as DCCA deputy director over the past four years, as well as his prior responsibilities in various DCCA divisions will ensure a seamless transition as we continue to carry out the department’s mission of helping Hawai‘i businesses be successful and protecting consumers from fraud and unfair business practices,” said Governor Lingle.  “Larry is an outstanding and committed public servant, a strong manager and a respected leader, and he will continue to be a valuable part of our team.”

Prior to joining the Lingle-Aiona Administration, Reifurth worked for the law firm of Oshima Chun Fong & Chung.  He also has had extensive experience working for and with DCCA under a prior Administration.  In 1994 he served as the state’s insurance commissioner.  Reifurth also represented the Division of Consumer Advocacy as a deputy attorney general from 1989-1994.  Both the insurance and consumer advocacy divisions are located within the DCCA.

He is a graduate of Northwestern University School of Law, the J.D. Kellogg Graduate School of Management, and Marquette University. 

“It has been an honor to work with such a dedicated team of individuals who are truly focused on promoting a fair and business-friendly marketplace and ensuring that the interests of Hawai‘i consumers remain a top priority,” said Reifurth.  “I look forward to continuing to work with the business community and consumer advocacy groups to build on the advances DCCA has made over the past four years.”

DCCA is made up of 12 divisions and offices.  The major services of these divisions and offices are: 1) the registration of businesses, securities and franchises; 2) the licensing of financial institutions, professionals, insurance agents and companies, security dealers, brokers and investment advisers; 3) the regulation of cable franchises; 4) the examination of financial institutions, insurance companies, security dealers and investment advisers for safety and soundness; 5) the handling of complaints against those entities that DCCA regulates; 6) protecting and advancing the interests of consumers of regulated utility and transportation services; 7) providing consumer education through brochures, videos and live presentations.

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For more information, contact:
Lenny Klompus
Senior Advisor – Communications
Phone: (808) 586-7708

Russell Pang
Chief of Media Relations
Phone: (808) 586-0043